Date of Award
Spring 2020
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Michael Huber, MMS, PA-C, DFAAPA
Second Advisor
Jodi Freeman, MMS, PA-C
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Migraines are a leading cause of disability in many people worldwide. There are numerous postulations as to their etiology and various medications that treat them. As crippling as migraines are, it is critical that there are therapies to prevent them rather than just treat them acutely. Both OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) and Topiramate have been shown to be beneficial as prophylaxis for migraines. This review aims to determine if, in adults who suffer from chronic migraines [P], OnabotulinumtoxinA injections [I] are more effective than oral Topiramate [C] in reduction of the amount of migraines suffered [O].
Methods: A literature search was conducted through EBSCO and Google Scholar in September and November 2018. A total of seven articles were chosen based on relevance to the research question, sample population, methods, and results.
Results: In the articles reviewed, Botox and Topiramate were both found to significantly reduce migraines, their duration, and their severity. While one of the studies did not show much of a significance in reduction of migraines when Botox was used, there was still a reduction. The results of these articles are similar to those of other studies conducted.
Discussion: All of the studies showed significant reduction of migraine days suffered for both Botox and Topiramate. However, it is hard to say with certainty which prophylactic treatment is more effective due to limited sample sizes, different methods utilized to measure outcomes, and lack of data regarding treatment efficacy and tolerability long-term.
Conclusion: Both Botox and Topiramate effectively reduce the amount of migraines suffered in adults with chronic migraines, allowing for a better quality of life. The choice as to which is better for someone depends on the specific individual. Further research to determine long-term efficacy and tolerability in a larger population is necessary to allow patients to make a well-informed decision.
Recommended Citation
Blaha, Stephanie, "Efficacy of OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) Injections Compared to Oral Topiramate in Reduction of Migraines Suffered in Adults" (2020). Capstone Showcase. 9.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2020/pa/9
Included in
Chemical Actions and Uses Commons, Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Nervous System Diseases Commons
Efficacy of OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) Injections Compared to Oral Topiramate in Reduction of Migraines Suffered in Adults
Abstract
Introduction: Migraines are a leading cause of disability in many people worldwide. There are numerous postulations as to their etiology and various medications that treat them. As crippling as migraines are, it is critical that there are therapies to prevent them rather than just treat them acutely. Both OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) and Topiramate have been shown to be beneficial as prophylaxis for migraines. This review aims to determine if, in adults who suffer from chronic migraines [P], OnabotulinumtoxinA injections [I] are more effective than oral Topiramate [C] in reduction of the amount of migraines suffered [O].
Methods: A literature search was conducted through EBSCO and Google Scholar in September and November 2018. A total of seven articles were chosen based on relevance to the research question, sample population, methods, and results.
Results: In the articles reviewed, Botox and Topiramate were both found to significantly reduce migraines, their duration, and their severity. While one of the studies did not show much of a significance in reduction of migraines when Botox was used, there was still a reduction. The results of these articles are similar to those of other studies conducted.
Discussion: All of the studies showed significant reduction of migraine days suffered for both Botox and Topiramate. However, it is hard to say with certainty which prophylactic treatment is more effective due to limited sample sizes, different methods utilized to measure outcomes, and lack of data regarding treatment efficacy and tolerability long-term.
Conclusion: Both Botox and Topiramate effectively reduce the amount of migraines suffered in adults with chronic migraines, allowing for a better quality of life. The choice as to which is better for someone depends on the specific individual. Further research to determine long-term efficacy and tolerability in a larger population is necessary to allow patients to make a well-informed decision.